Climbing Treestand

ABSTRACT

A treestand apparatus has a frame having a first end configured to engage a tree and a second end configured to support a user&#39;s weight, a double locking cinch including a first toothed belt attached to the frame at first and second points, with a portion of the first toothed belt between the first and second points being configured to extend around the tree and a second toothed belt attached to the frame at first and second points, with a portion of the second toothed belt between the first and second points being configured to extend around the tree opposite the first toothed belt. At least one of the points of the frame includes a mechanism configured to selectively adjust the length of a portion of the double locking cinch, with mechanisms located ideally proximal to the tree.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part and claims thepriority under 35 U.S.C. §120 of prior U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/142,166, entitled “Climbing Treestand,” filed Jun. 19, 2008, which inturn claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 of prior U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/728,709, entitled “Climbing Treestand, filedMar. 27, 2007, which in turn claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e)from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/,787,098, filed Mar. 28,2006, in the name of Raymond Bedell. These prior applications areincorporated by reference in their respective entireties.

BACKGROUND

Many people prefer to observe or hunt large game animals from thevantage point provided by an elevated platform in a high tree. Suchvantage points provide the opportunity to hunt and observe wildlifewhile avoiding detection by big-game animals roaming through the generalvicinity of the platform-bearing tree.

Climbing treestands are frequently used by hunters to ascend tree trunksand provide an elevated platform on which to support their weight duringhunting. A climbing treestand is both a climbing aid and, eventually, aplatform supporting the climber in the tree. These treestands typicallyrely on a cable or strap that extends around a tree trunk to support theweight of the hunter during ascension and subsequent hunting operations.It is common for some climbing tree stands to include a top piece, uponwhich the hunter may sit, and a bottom piece, configured to receive oneor both of the hunter's legs. The top and bottom pieces are used toascend a tree trunk using what is known as the “sit and stand”technique.

In the “sit and stand” technique, a user alternately rests his or herweight on one of the pieces while raising the other piece with respectto the tree trunk. Thus, when the hunter's weight is on the top pieceand the bottom piece is being raised with respect to the trunk, thehunter is sitting. Conversely, when the hunter's weight is on the bottompiece and the top piece is being raised with respect to the tree trunk,the hunter is standing. Climbing tree stands are generally moreversatile and less dangerous than fixed tree stands, and consequentiallyenjoy widespread usage by many large game hunters.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of theprinciples described herein and are a part of the specification. Theillustrated embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the scopeof the claims.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary top piece of a climbing treestand, according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a perspective view of an exemplary toppiece of a climbing tree stand with the arms in extended position,according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an exemplary bottom piece of a climbingtree stand, according to one embodiment of the principles describedherein.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a perspective view of an exemplary bottompiece of a climbing tree stand with the arms in extended position,according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 4 a is an illustration of a perspective view of an exemplary bottompiece of a climbing tree stand with the arms in extended position,according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of an exemplary first end of a climbing treestand, according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an exemplary front end of a climbing treestand, according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of an attachment mechanism, according to oneembodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a portion of an exemplary ratchet mechanismand an exemplary toothed belt, according to one embodiment of theprinciples described herein.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a portion of an exemplary compression gripmechanism and belt or cable, according to one embodiment of theprinciples described herein.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a side view of the top piece and bottompiece with arms collapsed and the pieces attached together forportability, according to one embodiment of the principles describedherein.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a user carrying an exemplary climbing treestand, according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a user pulling an exemplary climbing treestand behind him, according to one embodiment of the principlesdescribed herein.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of an exemplary climbing tree stand in theprocess of ascending a tree, according to one embodiment of theprinciples described herein.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of an exemplary climbing tree stand in theprocess of ascending a tree, according to one embodiment of theprinciples described herein.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of an exemplary climbing tree stand in theprocess of ascending a tree, according to one embodiment of theprinciples described herein.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of an exemplary climbing tree stand in theprocess of ascending a tree, according to one embodiment of theprinciples described herein.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of an exemplary climbing tree stand in theprocess of ascending a tree, according to one embodiment of theprinciples described herein.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of ascending atree, according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of ascending atree, according to one embodiment of the principles described herein.

Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar,but not necessarily identical, elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Notwithstanding the many benefits associated with climbing treestands,users of climbing treestands available in the art often encounterproblematic situations. For example, tree trunks tend to taper indiameter, becoming narrower as a climber ascends. Typically climbingtreestands include cables configured to extend around the trunk of atree. These cables are difficult to adjust or may not be adjustable atall. Without adjusting the cable, the user has very little control overthe pitch of the climbing treestand, which may vary substantially due tothe change in tree trunk diameter upon ascension of the tree.

An additional problem often encountered by users of climbing treestandsis that of encountering branches in a tree trunk upon ascension of thetree. Generally, climbing treestands have only one cable extendingaround the tree trunk, and therefore the maneuver of dismounting anddisassembling the treestand in order to move around the branch may beunsafe. Typically treestand users faced with this problem cut the branchoff of the trunk, which in turn causes damage to the tree, may cause ahazard on the forest floor, and may startle or notify game of a hunter'spresence.

To address the issues mentioned above, the present specificationdescribes a climbing treestand having a belt or cable configured toextend around the diameter of a tree trunk. The belt or cable isconnected to the climbing treestand by at least one connectionmechanism. The connection mechanism allows for adjusting the length ofthe portion of the belt or cable that extends around the tree trunk,thus providing enhanced pitch control to a user. The presentspecification further describes an example of a climbing treestandhaving a first and second belt or cable on the foot or platform section,configured to extend around a tree trunk. The plurality of belts orcables allows for a user to safely maneuver the treestand aroundbranches and other obstacles protruding from the tree trunk. Thespecification also addresses portability issues by describing wheels,collapsible arms, straps to carry the apparatus as a backpack, carryingbags, extendable frames, and a telescoping handle.

In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the present systems and methods. It will be apparent,however, to one skilled in the art that the present systems and methodsmay be practiced without these specific details. Reference in thespecification to “an embodiment,” “an example” or similar language meansthat a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described inconnection with the embodiment or example is included in at least thatone embodiment, but not necessarily in other embodiments. The variousinstances of the phrase “in one embodiment” or similar phrases invarious places in the specification are not necessarily all referring tothe same embodiment.

The principles disclosed herein will now be discussed with respect toexemplary climbing treestand apparatus and systems for climbing trees.

Exemplary Apparatus

Referring now to FIG. 1, an exemplary top portion of a climbingtreestand apparatus (100) is shown. The climbing treestand apparatus(100) includes a main frame (140) having a first end (110) and a secondend (115). The first end (110) is configured to engage a tree, andincludes components generally forming a “V” shape permitting the firstend (110) to engage tree trunks having a wide range of diameters. A sortof padding (112) made of substantially resilient material, such aspolyurethane, may be placed on the first end (110) situated so that itwill be between the main frame (140) and the tree for better grip andprotection of the tree trunk. The second end (115) is configured tosupport the weight of a user. In this case, the main frame is configuredto support the user's weight by providing a seat (145) for the user tosit on during and after climbing operations. The second end (115) mayalso provide attachments for a safety harness for safety in the case ofa fall. According to one example, the attachment may include a ring(150) attached to the seat (145) that is configured to support theuser's weight. A safety harness may be attached to the ring (150)securing a user to the tree stand. According to another example, thering (150) may be attached to the underside of the seat (145). Accordingto another example, the ring (150) may be attached at any secure pointto connect to any safety harness worn by a user. Said ring can beattached at any secure point to connect to any safety restraint harnessworn by operator.

The main frame (140) may be partially or substantially made out of alightweight, strong composite material. In other embodiments, the mainframe (140) may be made out of metal.

The main frame (140) has attached to it first and second arms (120, 125)to which a double locking cinch system (170) may be attached. In thisembodiment, the double locking cinch system (170) includes a firsttoothed belt (105), made of resilient material, which is removablyattached with a first set of ratchet mechanisms (130, 135). The firstset of ratchet mechanisms (130, 135) are configured to allow the user toselectively alter the length of a portion of the first toothed belt(105) that runs between the first and second arms (130, 135) forexample, while ascending or descending a tree. This portion of the firsttoothed belt (105) is configured to extend around the back side of thetree, opposite the side engaged by the first end (110) of the main frame(340). Specifically, the first set of ratchet assemblies of this examplepermit the movement of the first toothed belt (105) through the ratchetmechanism (130, 135) in a direction that shortens the length of at leasta portion of the first toothed belt (105) configured to extend around atree. The portion of the first toothed belts (105) configured to extendaround the tree may be lengthened by depressing a ratchet pawl, as willbe shown in more detail in subsequent figures. In this example, thefirst toothed belt (105) is positioned on a side of the tree oppositethe main frame (140).

Similarly, the double locking cinch system (170) may include a secondtoothed belt (155), made of resilient material, that is removablyattached to the main frame (140) with a second set of ratchet mechanisms(160, 165) configured to secure the climbing tree stand to the tree. Thesecond toothed belt (155) and second set of ratchet mechanisms (160,165) are configured to shorten a portion of the length of the secondtoothed belt between the ratchet mechanisms (160, 165). In this example,the second toothed belt (155) is positioned on front side of the tree,that is the same side engaged by the first end (110) of the main frame(340). In this fashion the first toothed belt (105) and the secondtoothed belt (155) together encompass the circumference of the trunk ofthe tree. According to this example, after the first toothed belt (105)has been adjusted to achieve the desired pitch, the second tooth belt(155) may be adjusted to tighten around the trunk of the tree. Doing soincreases friction between the tree and the climbing tree stand to morerigidly secure the device (100) to the tree and to prevent slippage ofthe device when the operator has reached the position desired. Thisincreases the safety of the device (100) and further reduces theenvironmental impact of the device on the tree.

According to one example, the second toothed belt (155) and the secondset of ratchet mechanisms (160, 165) may be attached to the firsttoothed belt (105) after the stand has been placed on the tree.According to another example, the second set of ratchet mechanisms (160,165) may be attached to the first toothed belt (105). In this example aportion of the second toothed belt (155) is inserted into the ratchetmechanisms and tightened after the stand has been placed on the tree andthe desired position reached.

Prior art has described multiple belt attachments located at theproximal portion near the front of the stand platform without a ratchetmechanism. Thus it is not intuitively obvious to one skilled in the artas the attachment at the front of the platform would require theoperator to face away from the tree to bend over placing full weight onthe front of the stand making it dangerous and impossible to release thebelt attachments. In this art the operator remains in contact with andfacing the tree placing his weight on the back portion of the standplatform and in contact with the hand portion of the device allowingweight to be taken off the stand portion of the platform thus allowingthe release and operation of the ratchet mechanism. This mechanismdescribes art not heretofore described in prior patent art In additionthis device describes a third belt attached to the upper belt which hasa second double ratchet mechanism which can be cinched closing the spacefrom the front of the tree as well as the back of the tree allowing thebelts to be securely attached to the tree in order to prevent slippageof the device when the operator has reached the position desired. Thistightening mechanism has not been described in prior art nor has thetightening opposite direction ratchet dual belt mechanism. This ratchetmechanism is not solidly attached to the tree stand or hand climbermechanism, but instead is attached to the belts after the stand has beenplaced on the tree. These mechanisms are also applicable in tree standswhich are not self climbing by design but rather those referred to asstrap on stands.

As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, there are variations onthe type of belt or cable that may be used in the double locking cinchsystem (170) to hold the treestand apparatus (100) and user against thetrunk of the tree. For example, as an alternate to the toothed belts(105, 155) and ratchet mechanisms (130, 135, 160, 165), the first andsecond arms may receive a synthetic or metal cable with spring activatedcompression grips. The cable or belt used will be able to bear theweight of the treestand and user. The cable or belt may also be made ofresilient material that will withstand the wear and tear of use inoutdoor environments, scraping against tree trunks, and frequent belt orcable length adjustment.

The arms (120, 125) may be collapsible angular extensions of the mainframe (140). The arms (120, 125) may be attached to the main frame byhinges or pins (127, 128) that allow the angular rotation of the arms. Asupport weldment (121) forming a “V” shape may be attached to the arms(120, 125) to support them in their extended positions. The supportweldment (121) may be attached to the arms (120,125) by hinge likeconnectors or pins (123, 124) to allow the rotation of the weldment(121) from collapsed to extended positions. These hinges or pins (127,128, 123, 124) may be sufficiently strong to support the weight of anindividual and his/her gear. The weldment (121) may be removablyattachable to the main frame (140) by a connector (126) that receives ahole (122) in the weldment and holds the arms (120, 125) in extendedposition. The connector (126) may be, for example, a bolt and wing-nutcombination for quick removal and attachment.

The embodiment further comprises bolts (141) to attach to a bottomportion of the treestand. The bolts (141) may be placed on the mainframe (140) with the threaded portion facing down or away from the facewhere the arms (120, 125) are attached. As will be apparent to oneskilled in the art, the bolts (141) may be replaced by other suitableconnectors, such as pins or hooks. The attachment of the treestands willbe discussed later in further detail.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a perspective view of the exemplary top portion(100) of the climbing treestand apparatus is shown. The double lockingcinch system (170) been left out for simplicity and the arms (120, 125)are shown in extended position. In extended position, the weldmentsupport (121) is attached to the main frame via the bolt (126) aspreviously discussed. The hinges or pins (123, 124, 127, 128) thatattach the arms to the weldment and main frame create a triangle ofsupport with the bolt attachment (126) for rigidity in the extendedposition. The support weldment (121) can be detached and rotated forwardor backwards to allow the arms (120, 125) to be collapsed. The arms(120, 125) are meant to be in extended position when engaging a tree andcollapsed position for transport.

Referring now to FIG. 3, an exemplary bottom portion of a climbingtreestand apparatus (300) is shown. The climbing treestand apparatus(300) includes a main frame (340) having a first end (310) and a secondend (315). The first end (310) is configured to engage a tree, andincludes a “V” shape and padding (312), similar to that of theembodiment shown in FIG. 1. Furthermore, the second end (315) of themain frame (340) is configured to support a user's weight by providingfoot straps (365) to attach the user's feet to the main frame (340) andallow the user to stand on the main frame (340).

The main frame (340) may be made of some sort of metal or substantiallyor partially fabricated from a lightweight, strong composite material toprovide versatility in transporting the climbing treestand apparatus(300).

The exemplary bottom portion of the climbing treestand apparatusincludes a pair of belts or cables. Specifically in FIG. 3, theapparatus (300) includes first and second toothed belts (305, 307) madeof resilient material, both of which are removably attached to first andsecond arms (330, 335) of the main frame (340), with ratchet mechanismssimilar to those discussed in relation to FIG. 1. The ratchetmechanisms, or equivalent attachment mechanisms, allow the user toselectively alter the length of the portion of the first and secondtoothed belts (305, 307) between the first and second arms (330, 335) ofthe main frame (340). These portions of the toothed belts (305, 307) areconfigured to extend around the tree engaged by the first end (310) ofthe main frame (340).

The toothed belts (305, 307) may be independently adjustable. One of thetoothed belts (305, 307) may be disengaged from the main frame (340)while another of the toothed belts (305, 307) maintains its positionextending around the tree trunk and attached to the main frame (340)allowing the treestand to remain secured to the tree while one of thebelts is not attached.

Again, as discussed in relation to FIG. 1, alternate belts or cablesalong with alternate attachment mechanisms may also be used in place ofthe depicted toothed belts (305, 307) and ratchet mechanisms.

The exemplary treestand apparatus (300) further includes wheels (345,350) that may be used to conveniently transport the treestand apparatus(300) on the ground. In one embodiment, the wheels (345, 350) may beused in conjunction with a pop-up handle, similar to those used withmany suitcases. A pop-up handle may be mounted, for example, on theunderside of the main frame (340).

In this embodiment, the arms are collapsible in a similar manner to thatshown in FIG. 1. The apparatus includes a support weldment (331) with ahole (332) that can be received by a connector (336) when the arms (330,335) are in extended position.

The embodiment further comprises threaded holes (341) to receive thebolts (141, FIG. 1) from the top portion of the treestand. The top (100,FIG. 1) and bottom (300, FIG. 3) portions of the treestand may beattached for portability as will be displayed in a later drawing. Onceagain, a variation on the threaded holes (341) may be used depending onthe connecting mechanism used to attach the tree stands. For example, ifhooks or pins were used on the top portion (100, FIG. 1), correspondinghooks or holes may be used on the bottom portion (300).

Referring now to FIG. 4, a perspective view is shown of the bottomportion of the treestand apparatus (300) of FIG. 3. The toothed belts(305, 307, FIG. 3), or comparable cables or belts, are left out forsimplicity. The arms (330, 335) are shown in extended position with thesupport weldment (331) attached to the main frame via the connector(336). The arms (330, 335) are attached to the main frame (340) andsupport weldment (331) by hinges or pins (405, 406, 407). The last hingeor pin connecting the support to one of the arms (330) is not in view.

The first and second arms (330, 335) are shown to include housings (410,415, 420, 425) for the ratchet assemblies by which the toothed belts(305, 307, FIG. 3) are attached to the first and second arms (330, 335).If alternate belts or cables are used, assemblies used for theattachment of the said belts or cables may be placed in a similarlocation, with attachments located ideally proximal to the tree.

With reference to toothed belts and ratchet assemblies, and as will besimilar to other cable or belt configurations, the ratchet assembliespermit the free movement of the toothed belts (305, 307 of FIG. 3)through the ratchet housings (410, 415, 420, 425) in one direction andprevent movement of the toothed belts (305, 307, FIG. 3) in a second,opposite direction. Movement by the toothed belts (305, 307, FIG. 3) inthe second, opposite direction may be accomplished by pressing thelever, cam, or pawl of the ratchet assembly concurrent to the movement.

Specifically, the ratchet assemblies of this embodiment permit themovement of the toothed belts (305, 307, FIG. 3) through the ratchethousings (410, 415, 420, 425) in a direction that shortens the length ofat least one of the portions of the toothed belts (305, 307, FIG. 3)configured to extend around a tree. The portions of the toothed belts(305, 307, FIG. 3) configured to extend around the tree may belengthened only by depressing a ratchet pawl, as will be shown in moredetail in subsequent figures.

Referring now to FIG. 4 a, a perspective view is shown of an exemplarybottom portion of the climbing tree stand (300) of FIG. 3. The toothedbelts (305, 307, FIG. 3), or comparable cables or belts, are left outfor simplicity. In this example, a portion of the second end (315) isextendable beyond the main frame (340). This enables the frame to becollapsed for transportation and extended when mounted on a tree.According to this example, the frame of the second end (315) insertsinto the main frame at a joint (430, 432). The second end (315) includesa number of adjustment holes (440) with corresponding adjustment holes(442) in the main frame. The adjustment holes (440, 442) allow for theselection of the length that the second end (315) extends beyond themain frame (340). A locking connector (450) secures the second end (315)to the main frame (340) when the adjustment holes (440, 442) arealigned. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, there arevariations on the type of locking connector (450) that may be used tosecure the second end (315) to the main frame (340). Examples of lockingconnectors include, but are not limited to, a nut and bolt, bolt andcotter pin, and a spring-loaded pin.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of an exemplary first end (510) of FIG. 1,used to secure the climbing tree stand to the tree. Certain elements,including the support weldment (121) have been left out for simplicity.The first end (510) includes arm components (512, 514) generally forminga “V” shape permitting the first end (510) to engage generally circulartree trunks having a wide range of diameters. Attached to the armcomponents (512, 514) are a pair of band supports (516, 518) which mayrotate. The band supports (516, 518) permit the first end (510) toengage tree trunks having a wide range of diameters. The band supports(516, 518) may be attached to the arm components (512, 514) by hinges orpins (520, 522) that allow angular rotation of the band supports. A band(524) made of substantially resilient material, such as polyurethane,may be coupled to the band supports (516, 518) so that it will bebetween the band supports and the tree for better grip and protection ofthe tree trunk. The first end (510) may be used to secure the topportion (FIG. 1, 100), and the bottom portion (FIG. 3, 300) to the tree.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an exemplary first end (610) used to securethe climbing tree stand to the tree. Certain elements, including thesupport weldment (121) have been left out for simplicity. The first end(610) includes arm components (512, 514). Attached to the arm components(512, 514) are a pair of support braces (612, 614) which may rotate. Thesupport braces (612, 614) may be attached to the arm components (512,514) by hinges or pins (616, 618) that allow angular rotation of thesupport braces. Connected to the support braces (612, 614) are a pair ofband supports (516, 518) which may rotate. Similarly the band supports(516, 518) may be attached to the support braces (612, 614) by hinges orpins (620, 622) that allow angular rotation of the band supports. Thesupport braces (612, 614) and the band supports (516, 518) permit thefirst end (610) to engage tree trunks having a wide range of diameters.The first end (610) also includes the band (524). The first end (610)may be used to secure the top portion (FIG. 1, 100), and the bottomportion (FIG. 3, 300) of the climbing tree stand to the tree.

Referring now to FIG. 7, an exemplary attachment mechanism (700) that isused to attach a belt or cable to the treestand arms (335, 330 FIGS. 3and 120, 125 FIG. 1) is shown. The attachment mechanism (700) may alsobe used in the double locking cinch system (170, FIG. 1) to attach thetop portion (100) to a tree, and to stabilize the tree stand to a treethrough the second toothed belt (155, FIG. 1). As described above, thedouble locking cinch system (170, FIG. 1) includes first and secondtoothed belts (105, 155, FIG. 1) that when fed through a first andsecond set of ratchet mechanisms (130, 135, 160, 165, FIG. 1)respectively allow the second toothed belt around the front of the treeto remain slack while climbing, while the second toothed belt encirclingthe back side of the tree may freely move up and down the trunk of thetree. Once a desired position has been reached, the second toothed beltmay be tightened against the front side of the tree. This mechanism isnot simply a circular belt but instead two different belts each fedthrough the double belt ratchet mechanism allowing the forward beltaround the front of the tree closest to the operator to remain slackwhile climbing, while the belt encircling the back side of the tree awayfrom the operator to move freely up and down the tree using the sit andstand climbing technique to place weight on or off the stand in awedging fashion. The forward belt will have the slack removed by theratchet mechanism by manual engagement by the operator when secureattachment to the tree is desirable. The attachment mechanism (700)includes a housing (710), a pawl (705), a pivot pin (715), a spring(725), and a spring pin (720). The spring (725) has one end in contactwith the ratchet housing (710) and another end that engages the pawl(705). The following figures will give specific details regardingattachment mechanisms for different belt or cable types.

A belt or cable may be fed through the housing (710) where it is engagedby the spring-loaded pawl (705) and restricted. An outer end of the pawl(705) provides a lever which may be depressed by the user to disengagethe pawl (705) from the toothed belt (305, FIG. 3) and permit thetoothed belt (305, FIG. 3) unrestrained movement in either directionthrough the housing (710). As used in the double locking cinch system,two attachment mechanisms (700) are employed, each facing a differentdirection. In this fashion, one attachment mechanism may be used toattach the climbing tree stand to a tree. The second attachmentmechanism may then be tightened against the tree, offering a more secureattachment of the climbing tree stand to the tree.

The ratchet mechanism (700) depicted in this embodiment has internal andexternal portions which allow easy inspection and replacement of theparts of the ratchet mechanism.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a side view of an attachment assembly (800)that is configured to engage toothed belts is shown. The attachmentassembly (800) for toothed belts will also be referred to as a ratchetassembly. The ratchet assembly (800) is shown in conjunction with atoothed belt (305). The housing (710, FIG. 7) and spring elements (720,725, FIG. 7) have been removed to better illustrate the interactionbetween the ratchet pawl (805) and a toothed belt (305).

The pawl (805) has a recess (810) designed to engage individual teeth(815) of the toothed belt (305). The geometries of the teeth (815) andthe pawl (805) are such that movement of the toothed belt (305) to theright is possible. The spring-loaded pawl (805) locks the toothed belt(305) into position by preventing it from moving to the left as long asthe pawl (805) has engaged one of the teeth (815). When a leftwardmotion of the toothed belt is desired, the pawl (705) must be disengagedby rotating it counterclockwise about the pivot pin (715). This rotationmay be accomplished by depressing the top of pawl (805).

Referring now to FIG. 9, a side view of an attachment assembly (900)that is configured to engage a non-toothed belt or cable is shown. Theattachment assembly (900) for a non-toothed belt or cable will also bereferred to as a compression grip assembly. The compression gripassembly (900) is shown in conjunction with a non-toothed belt or cable(910). The housing (710, FIG. 7) and spring elements (720, 725, FIG. 7)have been removed to better illustrate the interaction between thecompression grip pawl (905) and a non-toothed belt or cable (910).

The geometry of the pawl (905) is such that movement of the belt orcable (900) to the right is possible. That is, if the belt or cable(910) is pulled to the right, the friction between the pawl (905) andthe belt or cable (910) will reduce the compression of the belt or cable(910) and allow the right-ward movement. However, the geometry of thepawl (905) inhibits the movement of the cable or belt (910) to the left.The spring-loaded pawl (905) along with friction between the pawl (905)and belt or cable (910) locks the belt or cable (910) into position bypreventing it from moving to the left as long as the pawl (905)sufficiently compresses the belt or cable (910). When a leftward motionof the belt or cable (910) is desired, the pawl (905) must be disengagedby rotating it counterclockwise about the pivot pin (715). This rotationmay be accomplished by depressing the top of pawl (905).

Referring now to FIG. 10, the treestand (1000) consists of the top (100)and bottom (300) portions of the treestand. Both portions (100, 300) ofthe treestand are collapsed and attached for portability. The dottedlines are used to distinguish each portion of the tree stand (100, 300).The bottom portion of the treestand in this view comprises the mainframe(340), an arm (330), the support weldment (331), and a wheel (345). Thetop portion (100) in this view comprises the main frame (140), the arm(120), the support weldment (121), and attachment bolts (141). Using theattachment bolts (141) and the receiving bolt holes (341, FIG. 3), theportions are attached firmly together. The collapsibility and attachmentof the frames allows for easy portability of the treestand.

Referring now to FIG. 11, an exemplary climbing treestand apparatus(300) is shown mounted on the back of a user (1105) with shoulder straps(1110, 1115).

Referring now to FIG. 12, the exemplary climbing treestand (1000) isshown pulled by a user (1205). The attached climbing treestand apparatus(1000) may be rolled on wheels (350) behind a user (1005) holding ontothe main frame (340, FIG. 3) of the bottom portion (300) of thetreestand. Although not shown in this figure, an extendable handlesimilar to that used on luggage may also be included. Luggage bags (notshown) may also be attached to the stand (1000) in which the stand maybe placed and carried or checked as a piece of airline luggage.Additional bags may also be incorporated onto the stand such as adetachable fanny pack, or pouches for holding needed items whileascending, descending, or waiting for game in the stand.

Exemplary System

FIGS. 13-17 illustrate an exemplary system (1300) for climbing a tree(1305) in various stages of ascending a tree. The system (1300) includesfirst and second climbing treestand apparatus (100, 300). Each climbingtreestand apparatus (100, 300) has a main frame and extending arms.

The first climbing treestand apparatus (100) is configured to support auser's weight with the user sitting thereon, and has a double lockingcinch system (170). Included in the double locking cinch system is afirst toothed belt (105) attached to the extending arms at two pointswith ratchet mechanisms. A portion of the toothed belt (105) extendsaround the back side of the tree (1105) thereby securing the apparatus(100) to the tree. The second tooth belt (155) attached to the extendingarms at two points with other ratchet mechanism. A portion of the secondtoothed belt (155) extends around the front side of the tree oppositethe portion surrounded by the first toothed belt. With the first toothedbelt (105) adjusted as desired, the second toothed belt (155) tightensagainst the tree to further secure the climbing treestand apparatus(100) to the tree. In this arrangement the first toothed belt (105) maybe released to pass around the back of the tree and over any limbs whichare encountered during the ascent or descent of the tree. In thisarrangement the second of the two belts can be released to pass aroundthe back of a tree and over any limbs which are encountered during theascent or descent of the tree. After the second belt is passed aroundthe tree and over an obstacle such as a limb, the first belt is releaseduntil the operator has cleared the obstacle. The second belt is thenreattached and secured to allow a double belt system to continue theclimb and thus be ready for the repeat of the process when anotherobstacle is encountered. This system has not been described in priorart. It is not intuitively obvious to one skilled in the art as no priorart has described the necessity of a double belt and ratchet mechanismto overcome the above described obstacles encountered during the relatedactivities. In addition this device has a belt attachment at the base ofthe stand platform which engages contact with the tree. The doubleswivel belt attachment allows a more secure grip to the tree withoutdamaging the tree. Other prior art has described metal teeth and solidlyattached rubber posts. These damage the trees and do not allow thecradling action of the belt to securely adhere to the tree withoutdamage to the tree.

The second climbing treestand apparatus (300) is configured to supportthe user's weight with the user standing thereon. The second apparatus(300) has two toothed belts (305, 307), which, similar to the firstapparatus (100), are each attached to the arms of the second apparatusat two points with ratchet mechanisms. A portion of each of the toothedbelts (305, 307) extends around the tree (1305).

The exemplary system (1300) is configured to allow a user to climb thetree (1305) using the “sit and stand” technique, in which the first andsecond apparatus (100, 300) serve to alternately ascend or descend thetree trunk and provide support for the weight of the user. This andother similar techniques are known in the art. The user is not shown inthe figures for clarity.

Referring now to FIG. 13, the system (1300) is shown ascending the tree(1305) with a branch (1310) as a potential obstacle to the system(1300). To continue ascending the tree (1305), the first or upperclimbing treestand apparatus (100) must be manipulated around the branch(1310). To do so, the toothed belt (105) may be disengaged from the mainframe using the ratchet mechanism. While the second apparatus (300)supports the user's weight, the first apparatus (100) may then besecured to the tree above the branch (1310) and the toothed belt (105)reattached to the main frame with the ratchet mechanism.

Referring now to FIG. 14, the system (1300) is shown with the firstapparatus (100) above the branch (1310), and one of the toothed belts(307) of the second apparatus (300) disengaged. The toothed belt (307)may be disengaged from the arm using the ratchet mechanism. Oncedisengaged, the loose toothed belt (307) may be manipulated over thebranch (1310) and reengaged into the main frame, while maintaining aconstant anchor to the tree (1305) from the other toothed belt (305) ofthe second apparatus (300).

Referring now to FIG. 15, the system (1300) is shown with the firstclimbing treestand apparatus (100) and one of the toothed belts (307) ofthe second climbing treestand above the branch (1310). The second belt(305) is still engaged and attached below the branch.

Referring now to FIG. 16, the system (1300) is shown with the toothedbelt (305) that was beneath the branch (1310) disengaged from the mainframe, while the second climbing treestand apparatus (300) is beingsupported by the engaged toothed belt (307) above the branch (1310).

Referring now to FIG. 17, the system (1300) is shown with all of thetoothed belts (105, 155, 305, 307) connected to their correspondingtreestand climbing apparatus (100, 300) above the branch (1310). Usingratchet mechanisms in conjunction with toothed belts (105, 305, 307) thetreestand apparatus (100, 300) may be successfully and safelymanipulated around obstacles such as branches (1310).

Exemplary Methods

Referring now to FIG. 18, an exemplary method (1800) of climbing a treeis shown. The method (1800) includes the step of providing (step 1805) atree-climbing system, as described in relation to FIG. 13. A user's feetare then coupled (step 1810) to the tree-climbing system. The user thenascends (step 1815) the tree, compensating (step 1820) for a diminishingtree trunk diameter by using two attachment mechanisms to shorten thelength of the belts or cables extending around the tree.

Referring now to FIG. 19, another method (1900) of climbing a tree isshown. The method includes the step of providing (step 1905) atree-climbing system as described in relation to FIG. 13. A user's feetare coupled (step 1910) to the system, and the user then ascends (step1915) the tree, alternately disengaging (step 1920) the belts or cablesto manipulate the system around an obstacle in the tree.

The preceding description has been presented only to illustrate anddescribe embodiments and examples of the principles described. Thisdescription is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theseprinciples to any precise form disclosed. Many modifications andvariations are possible in light of the above teaching.

1. A treestand apparatus comprising: a frame having a first endconfigured to engage a tree and a second end configured to support auser's weight; Without damage to the tree using a multiple swivel beltattachment which cradles the trunk of the tree rather than biting intothe tree trunk. a double locking cinch comprising: a first toothed beltattached to said frame at first and second points, a portion of saidfirst toothed belt between said first and second points being configuredto extend around said tree; and a second toothed belt attached to saidframe at first and second points; a portion of said second toothed beltbetween said first and second points being configured to extend aroundsaid tree opposite the first toothed belt; wherein at least one of saidpoints of said frame comprises a mechanism configured to selectivelyadjust a length of the double locking cinch.
 2. The treestand apparatusof claim 1, wherein said mechanism comprises a pair of pawls configuredto engage the individual teeth of said toothed belts.
 3. The treestandapparatus of claim 1, wherein said mechanisms comprises internal andexternal portions which allow easy inspection and replacement of partsof said mechanisms.
 4. The treestand apparatus of claim 1, wherein saidmechanisms comprise independently mounted springs.
 5. The treestandapparatus of claim 1, wherein said frame comprises a composite material.6. The treestand apparatus of claim 1, wherein said frame comprisesshoulder straps.
 7. The treestand apparatus of claim 1, wherein saidframe comprises wheels and an extendable handle.
 8. The treestandapparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or more attachments forconnection of a safety harness.
 9. The treestand apparatus of claim 1,further comprising an extendable frame.
 10. The treestand apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising a second double locking cinch attached tosaid frame at third and fourth points wherein at least one of said thirdand fourth points of said frame comprises a mechanism configured toselectively adjust a length of the second double locking cinch.
 11. Thetreestand apparatus of claim 10, wherein said mechanism comprises a pairof pawls configured to engage the individual teeth of the second doublelocking cinch.
 12. The treestand apparatus of claim 1, wherein saidtoothed belt comprises a resilient material.
 13. The treestand apparatusof claim 1, wherein the first end further comprises: a pair of armcomponents generally forming a “V” shape configured to receive the trunkof a tree; a pair of band supports rotably coupled to the angledsupports; and a band coupled to the band supports placed between theband supports and the trunk of a tree.
 14. The treestand apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein the arm components are coupled to the band supportswith a support arm rotably coupled at one end to the pair of armcomponents and rotably coupled to the band supports at the other end.15. A system for climbing a tree, comprising: a first main frame havinga first double locking cinch attached thereto at first and secondpoints, said first double locking cinch comprising: a first toothed beltattached to said frame at first and second points, a portion of saidfirst toothed belt between said first and second points being configuredto extend around said tree; a second toothed belt attached to said frameat first and second points; a portion of said second toothed beltbetween said first and second points being configured to extend aroundsaid tree opposite the first toothed belt; a second main frame having asecond double locking cinch attached thereto at third and fourth points,a portion of said second double locking cinch being configured to extendaround said tree; wherein each of said first and second main framescomprise a mechanism configured to selectively adjust a length of saidportion of said first and second double locking cinches, respectively.16. The system of claim 15, further comprising a third double lockingcinch attached to said second main frame, a portion of said third doublelocking cinch being configured to extend around said tree. wherein thesecond main frame comprises a mechanism configured to selectively adjusta length of said portion of said third double locking cinches. Employingone or more ratchet mechanisms to positively cinch the belt around theback of the tree and the belt around the front of the tree in a tightfriction engagement around the entire circumference of the tree trunk.17. The system of claim 15, wherein at least one of said mechanismscomprises a pawl configured to engage individual teeth of said doublelocking cinch.
 18. The system of claim 15, wherein said first main framecomprises a seat.
 19. The system of claim 15, wherein said second mainframe is comprises an apparatus to attach said user's feet thereto. 20.The system of claim 15, wherein at least one of said first and secondmain frames comprises a composite material.
 21. The system of claim 15,wherein at least one of said first and second main frames comprisesshoulder straps.
 22. The system of claim 15, wherein at least one ofsaid first and second main frames comprises an extendable handle andwheels.
 24. A method of climbing a tree, said method comprising:providing a system as defined in claim 15; coupling said user's feet tosaid second frame; and ascending a tree; wherein said user uses saidratchet mechanisms to shorten the length of said double locking cinchesto compensate for a diminishing tree trunk diameter.
 25. A method ofclimbing a tree, said method comprising: providing a system as definedin claim 15; coupling said user's feet to said second frame; andascending a tree; wherein said user alternately disengages said doublelocking cinches to manipulate said system around an obstacle in saidtree.